It’s American Heart Month, a time set aside to focus on preventing heart disease — the leading cause of death in adults. And here’s the good news: You don’t have to be a statistic. Here’s what our Director of Family Practice, Dr. Patricia Hayes, recommends for preventing heart problems.

Depression and bipolar disorder may be the most commonly talked about mental health conditions, but anxiety disorders are the most prevalent. Occasional anxiety is normal; constant or excessive anxiety is not. It could be the sign of an anxiety disorder — a serious medical condition.

More than a third of adults aren’t getting enough sleep, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Medical research shows a lack of sleep affects your physical health, safety (think driving while drowsy), and mental health.

“Adding geriatric services allows us to better serve the needs of our aging communities,” says Dr. Patricia Hayes, Legacy’s Director of Family Medicine. “It’s a pressing need and another way for us to drive healthy change in our communities.”

“We’re all addicted to something,” Felicia Sexton said. “It could be food, negative thinking, overworking or drugs and alcohol. Because I’ve overcome addiction, and have been able to restore my health and body, I now want to help patients at Legacy do the same.”

Each time she prepares for a fitness class, Legacy volunteer Jennafer Hamilton looks out into the crowd of eager school-aged children and parents who renew her commitment to volunteer. “The smiles. It’s really just about the smiles,” she says.